The Proper Way to Hang a Confederate Flag
At the onset of the Civil War, the Confederate flag was adopted as a uniting symbol by the states which seceded from the U.S. in opposition to expanding government control and anti-slavery sentiment. Some states, as well as groups and individuals, particularly in the south, still fly the flag of the Confederacy, often evoking controversy due to the varied meanings individuals apply to the Confederate symbol. Those who display the Confederate flag must follow proper flag etiquette out of respect for the flag and the historical significance it represents.
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Instructions
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Confederate flag at a Civil War reenactment. Display the American flag with the Confederate flag each time the latter is used. Place the American flag to the Confederate flag's right. If a speaker is involved, place the American flag to the speaker's right and the Confederate flag to his left. Hang the flags on separate poles with the American flag higher than the Confederate flag. If you must raise the flags on the same pole, place the American flag above the Confederate flag.
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Bearing the Confederate flag Raise the Confederate flag quickly. Hang it either horizontally or vertically but never upside down. Check that the flag is unfettered can hang freely without hiding from view, dragging on the ground or touching other objects. Do not tie it back, drape it or use it as a covering.
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Fly the flag only in clear weather, and lower it if inclement weather sets in. Alternatively, fly an all-weather flag.
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Display the flag only during the day unless you illuminate the flag or you desire a show of increased patriotism.
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Raise the flag daily, especially on days with historical significance to the Confederacy. Hang it at half mast until noon on Memorial Day, at which point you should raise it to full mast.
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Lower the flag slowly and respectfully. Do not let it touch the ground or other surfaces.
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Tips & Warnings
Dispose of a worn flag respectfully, preferably by burning.
According to the Daughters of the Confederacy, the Confederate flag should remain second to the flag of the United States of America in whatever role or location it is used.
A spear is an appropriate standard for the end of a Confederate staff.
The Code of Confederate Flag Etiquette states you should never use the Confederate flag for apparel, a bag or other purposes not in line with the respectful intention of a flag.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Rebel flag image by Roman Barelko from Fotolia.com confederate infantry image by Stacey Lynn Payne from Fotolia.com confederate soldier. image by Kevin Chesson from Fotolia.com
